Make the most of warm weather with these affordable, high-impact updates.
Introduction Summer Home Projects
When it comes to maintaining and improving your home, timing is everything—and summer is hands-down the best season to tackle many of those lingering projects, according to the team at MGS Contracting Services. With longer daylight hours, better weather, and easier access to both indoor and outdoor areas, summer home projects can be completed more efficiently and with fewer weather-related delays.
But here’s the thing most homeowners overlook: Not all home improvements need to be large-scale renovations. In fact, many of the most effective summer projects are smaller, manageable upgrades that increase your home’s functionality, curb appeal, and even its energy efficiency—all without breaking the bank.
From a contractor’s perspective, summer is the ideal time to: Summer Home Projects
- Address wear and tear from winter and spring. Summer Home Projects
- Prepare your home for fall and winter storms. Summer Home Projects
- Take advantage of optimal conditions for painting, repairs, and exterior work. Summer Home Projects
- Increase the value of your property with visible and impactful updates. Summer Home Projects
- Make your outdoor spaces more livable, beautiful, and functional for everyday use or entertaining.
Homeowners often ask, “What are the best home improvement projects to do in the summer?” or “How can I use the summer to get ahead on home maintenance?” The answer lies in targeting summer home projects that make the most of the season’s advantages. That’s why we’ve compiled this contractor-approved list of the 13 best summer home projects—each one designed to help you: Summer Home Projects
- Maximize ROI, Summer Home Projects
- Protect your investment, Summer Home Projects
- And create a more comfortable, beautiful home environment. Summer Home Projects
Whether you’re planning to refresh your paint, upgrade your landscaping, power-wash the exterior, or build something new, the summer months offer a rare window to make visible progress without weather disruptions or extended downtime. Summer Home Projects
And the best part? Many of these updates are affordable, DIY-friendly, and can be done over a weekend with the right tools and a little planning. Summer Home Projects
As Chris Chapman, owner of MGS Contracting Services, puts it: Summer Home Projects
“Summer is when homeowners have the most access to their home’s exterior—and when things like drying times, outdoor construction, and landscaping can actually work in your favor. It’s the best season to knock out those projects that always fall to the bottom of the list.” Summer Home Projects
In the sections that follow, you’ll find a carefully selected set of summer home projects that balance effort, affordability, and long-term impact. Each recommendation comes with practical tips from a contractor’s point of view, so you can make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes. Summer Home Projects
Ready to take advantage of the season? Let’s dive into the best summer home projects to cross off your list this year. Summer Home Projects
CREDIT: INSPIRATION FOR HOME
1. Pressure-Wash Outdoor Areas Summer Home Projects
Warm weather is the perfect excuse to blast away built-up grime from siding, patios, driveways, and decks.
One of the most satisfying and impactful summer home projects is giving your outdoor surfaces a deep clean with a pressure washer. After months of snow, rain, pollen, and grime, your siding, walkways, patio, and driveway are probably looking dull, stained, or even slippery. Pressure washing is a fast, affordable way to instantly improve curb appeal and restore the look of your home’s exterior. Summer Home Projects
According to MGS Contracting Services, many homeowners underestimate how much buildup accumulates over the seasons. Dirt, mold, mildew, and algae thrive in damp spring conditions and cling to your home’s exterior surfaces. If left unchecked, these elements can degrade your paint, stain your siding, and even pose a slip hazard on decks and walkways. Summer Home Projects
That’s why pressure washing is more than just a cosmetic fix—it’s preventative maintenance. Regular cleaning helps preserve your exterior materials, especially in areas prone to heavy moisture or tree cover. It’s also a critical first step if you plan to stain your deck, repaint trim, or seal your driveway—prepping a clean surface ensures your finish sticks and lasts longer. Summer Home Projects
Where to Focus Your Pressure Washing Efforts Summer Home Projects
For the best results, target these outdoor surfaces: Summer Home Projects
- Vinyl or fiber cement siding: Restore color and remove mildew. Summer Home Projects
- Decks and porches: Remove old grime before resealing or refinishing. Summer Home Projects
- Patios (stone, pavers, or concrete): Clean out joints, kill weeds, and remove slippery buildup.
- Driveways and walkways: Brighten concrete and remove oil stains. Summer Home Projects
- Outdoor furniture: Refresh plastic, metal, or wood pieces before summer gatherings.
Pro Tips from MGS Contracting Services: Summer Home Projects
“A common mistake we see homeowners make is using too much pressure—especially on wood or painted siding,” says Chris Chapman, owner of MGS. “Too much force can gouge surfaces, strip paint, or drive water into gaps where it doesn’t belong.” Summer Home Projects
Here’s how to do it right: Summer Home Projects
- Always spray downward on siding to avoid forcing water behind the boards, which can lead to mold or rot.
- Use a wider-angle nozzle (25 or 40 degrees) for softer surfaces like wood or painted areas.
- For concrete and tougher surfaces, you can use a narrower spray but start from a distance and test in a small area first. Summer Home Projects
- Use cleaners designed for your surface type—for example, a wood-safe detergent for decks or a concrete degreaser for driveways. Summer Home Projects
Don’t Have a Pressure Washer? Summer Home Projects
You don’t need to buy one to get the job done. Most hardware stores offer daily or weekend rentals for under $50, making this one of the most affordable summer home projects you can complete in a single day.
And if pressure washing reveals flaking paint, cracked concrete, or areas in need of sealing—those are your next projects to prioritize this season.
2. Refinish Your Deck Summer Home Projects
Refresh your deck with a new coat of stain or paint to restore beauty and improve durability.
When it comes to Summer Home Projects that offer a high visual payoff and long-term protection, refinishing your deck is one of the smartest investments you can make. After enduring months of harsh weather—UV exposure, snow, ice, rain, and fluctuating temperatures—your deck takes a beating. Wood surfaces become faded, cracked, or splintered, and the protective coating starts to wear away. If ignored, this exposure can lead to rot, warping, or costly repairs.
According to MGS Contracting Services, refinishing your deck isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about extending the life of the structure. A proper stain or paint job creates a protective barrier that guards the wood against moisture, UV rays, and general wear and tear. It also makes the space more inviting for entertaining, relaxing, and enjoying warm summer nights.
Why Summer is the Best Time to Refinish Your Deck Summer Home Projects
Dry, warm weather is critical for stain or paint to properly cure. That’s why deck refinishing is one of the most effective summer home projects—you’re working with ideal temperatures and longer daylight hours, giving you plenty of time to get it done right. Whether you’re aiming for a transparent stain to highlight the natural grain, or a bold new paint color to match your updated exterior, summer gives you the window you need.
Step-by-Step Deck Refinishing Process Summer Home Projects
MGS Contracting Services recommends the following method for a durable, professional finish:
1. Inspect the Structure
Before diving into cleaning or staining, inspect the deck for any loose boards, popped nails, mold, mildew, or structural issues. Repair any damage to avoid sealing over rotted wood or creating trip hazards.
2. Power Wash
Power washing removes embedded dirt, algae, and old product residue. For softwoods like cedar or pine, use a low-pressure setting (500-600 PSI) to avoid damaging the fibers. For hardwoods or composite decking, you can go slightly higher, but still maintain caution.
Pro Tip from MGS: “If you skip this step or rush through it, you’ll end up sealing dirt into the surface, which prevents stain from bonding properly. A clean deck is the foundation of a successful refinish.”
3. Sand the Surface
After the deck has fully dried, sanding smooths out raised grain, splinters, and peeling stain. Use a random orbital sander or pole sander with 60–80 grit for rough prep, then finish with 100–120 grit. Be sure to clean off dust afterward.
4. Choose the Right Product
- Stain is great for showcasing the natural look of wood. Choose between transparent, semi-transparent, or solid-color stain depending on your desired finish and level of UV protection.
- Paint offers a bolder look and can unify older boards with color, but it forms a film over the surface, which may peel if not properly maintained.
5. Apply Stain or Paint Carefully
Apply product using a brush, roller, or stain pad in thin, even coats. Work in small sections, keeping a wet edge to avoid lap marks. Always follow the manufacturer’s drying times—this ensures proper absorption and long-term durability.
6. Seal for Extra Protection (Optional)
If using a water-based product or if your deck gets a lot of exposure, a clear sealant can be added on top for even more weather resistance.
Bonus Upgrade: Repaint Outdoor Furniture Summer Home Projects
To complete the look of your outdoor living space, MGS recommends refreshing your patio furniture. A simple coat of weather-resistant spray paint or brush-on enamel can completely transform aging chairs, tables, and benches—making them feel brand new and cohesive with your newly refinished deck.
“It’s an affordable way to breathe new life into your backyard without replacing everything,” says Chris Chapman, owner of MGS Contracting Services.
Deck Refinishing Cost & Timeline Summer Home Projects
- DIY Cost: $100–$300 for stain, brushes, sandpaper, etc.
- Time Required: 1–2 days, depending on size and weather
- Pro Cost: $3–$6 per square foot
3. Build a Shed Summer Home Projects
Add functional storage or a flexible outdoor retreat to your backyard with a custom shed.
When homeowners think about impactful summer home projects, building a backyard shed often doesn’t get the spotlight it deserves—but it should. A shed is one of the most versatile and value-boosting additions you can make to your property. It’s not just a place to stash tools and lawn gear anymore—today’s sheds can be fully customized to serve as garden retreats, hobby workshops, home offices, bike storage zones, or even mini gyms.
At MGS Contracting Services, we consider sheds to be small-footprint upgrades with big benefits, especially during the warmer months when outdoor construction is faster, cleaner, and more cost-effective.
Why Building a Shed Is One of the Smartest Summer Home Projects
Summer is the ideal season to build a shed. Dry weather reduces the risk of foundation issues, makes site work and framing easier, and helps finishes cure properly. Plus, longer daylight hours give you (or your contractor) more productive time on site, which can save on labor costs and shorten your project timeline.
A well-built shed can instantly:
- Clear out clutter from your garage or basement
- Add square footage for storage or hobby use
- Increase home value and curb appeal
- Offer extra space without a full addition
Whether you’re storing gardening tools, setting up a she-shed or man-cave, or organizing seasonal decorations, a shed creates a dedicated, weather-protected space that improves your entire home’s functionality.
Key Considerations Before You Build
Before jumping into one of the most practical summer home projects, MGS Contracting Services recommends doing your homework to avoid mistakes and ensure long-term success.
1. Check Local Building Codes
This is non-negotiable. Many municipalities have specific rules about:
- Shed size and height
- Setback distances from property lines
- Utility access or easements
- Required permits or inspections
Pro Tip from MGS: “Don’t assume you can just start digging. Even small sheds may require permits or zoning reviews. Skipping this step can lead to fines or forced tear-downs.”
2. Choose the Right Site
A successful shed project starts with location. Look for a level, well-drained area that won’t collect water or shift over time. Avoid placing sheds directly under trees (falling branches, excess shade, and debris buildup) and stay clear of septic systems or utility lines.
3. Select the Right Foundation
The foundation depends on shed size and usage:
- Gravel Pad: Great for small-to-medium garden sheds and provides excellent drainage.
- Concrete Slab: Best for heavy-use or larger sheds that will hold machinery, electrical equipment, or act as workshops.
- Paver Base or Pier Blocks: An economical, DIY-friendly solution for lighter structures.
A good foundation prevents rot, warping, and uneven settling—which are all common problems in poorly built sheds.
Design & Customization Tips
One reason sheds have become so popular as summer home projects is their adaptability. Today’s homeowners are moving far beyond the basic box. Here’s how you can personalize yours:
- Windows for natural light and airflow
- Electricity for lighting, outlets, and mini HVAC systems
- Shelving and Pegboards for efficient storage
- Insulation if you plan to use it year-round
- Exterior Paint or Stain to match your home or landscape style
- Solar Panels for off-grid or energy-efficient setups
You can even create a dual-purpose shed—one side for tools, the other for a reading nook, office, or kid’s art space.
Contractor Insight from MGS: “We’ve built sheds that do double duty as lawn care stations and home brewing spaces. With good design, it’s easy to make a small structure incredibly useful.”
Budgeting for Your Shed Build
Shed costs vary depending on size, materials, and whether you build DIY or hire a pro.
| Shed Size | DIY Estimated Cost | Contractor-Built Cost |
| 8′ x 10′ | $1,200–$2,500 | $3,500–$6,000+ |
| 10′ x 12′ | $1,800–$3,800 | $5,000–$9,000+ |
| 12′ x 16′ | $2,500–$5,500 | $8,000–$12,000+ |
Keep in mind that extras like electrical, insulation, or high-end finishes will raise the price—but also add long-term function and resale value.
Timeline: How Long It Takes
On average, expect:
- DIY Build: 2–5 weekends depending on your skill level
- Pro Build: 3–7 days for most basic-to-mid-size sheds
4. Declutter Your Home Summer Home Projects
Clear space, clear mind: decluttering is one of the most underrated but impactful summer home projects you can tackle.
When people think of summer home projects, they often imagine building something new, painting a room, or tackling an outdoor upgrade. But there’s one transformative project that doesn’t require any tools—and yet lays the foundation for almost every successful renovation or refresh: decluttering.
Decluttering isn’t just about tossing old junk. It’s about resetting your space, making it more livable, more functional, and more aligned with the way you want to use your home. And summer is the perfect time to do it.
Why Decluttering Is a Summer Home Project Worth Prioritizing
The energy of summer—longer days, natural light, and the motivation to prepare your home for entertaining—makes it easier to tackle what might feel like an overwhelming task during colder, busier months. With kids out of school and schedules more flexible, many homeowners find summer is the best time to edit their spaces and clear out the buildup of the past year.
Decluttering gives you:
- More usable square footage without any construction
- Better mental clarity by reducing visual stress and decision fatigue
- Improved airflow and natural light, especially in overfilled rooms
- A clear starting point for other summer home projects
At MGS Contracting Services, we always recommend clients begin renovations with a good declutter. Why? Because you can’t upgrade what you can’t see clearly.
The Contractor’s Perspective: Why Less Stuff = Better Renovation Results
Decluttering before a remodel or maintenance job allows your contractor to:
- Spot hidden damage behind furniture or storage
- Understand the real traffic flow of a space
- Access walls, flooring, and systems without unnecessary demo
- Identify functional inefficiencies that can be improved
From MGS Contracting Services: “We’ve had clients clean out a room thinking they just needed new floors, only to find water damage, poor insulation, or outdated wiring hidden behind stored items. Decluttering early saves time, money, and surprises later.”
How to Declutter Like a Pro: Step-by-Step
1. Choose Your Zones Strategically
Start with the spaces that impact your daily life the most:
- Kitchen counters and pantry
- Entryway or mudroom
- Living room shelves
- Bathroom cabinets
- Bedroom closets
- Garage or attic (for big wins)
2. Set a Timer and a Goal
Don’t get overwhelmed. Aim for one area at a time—say, “I’m going to spend 30 minutes clearing out this closet,” or “Today I’m tackling all the kitchen drawers.”
3. Use the 4-Box Method
Label four bins or piles:
- Keep
- Donate
- Trash/Recycle
- Relocate (for things that belong elsewhere)
4. Ask the Right Questions
When in doubt, ask:
- Have I used this in the past year?
- Would I buy this again today?
- Is this item worth the space it takes up?
5. Be Honest with Sentimental Items
Keep what truly brings you joy—but store it intentionally. Create a memory box or dedicate a shelf instead of letting keepsakes collect dust in forgotten bins.
Decluttering and Design Go Hand in Hand
If you’re planning to remodel or update your space later in the summer, decluttering gives your designer or contractor a blank canvas to work with. It helps you better visualize:
- What layout changes would actually help
- Where storage is lacking or misused
- How natural light interacts with your space
- What finishes or colors you want to highlight
For example, a cluttered bathroom might seem like it just needs more cabinets—but once cleared, you may realize better lighting and a smart vanity setup would do more for your daily routine.
Don’t Forget Outdoor Spaces
Decluttering isn’t just an indoor task. Summer is also a great time to:
- Clear out broken planters or unused lawn furniture
- Organize the garage or garden shed
- Purge outdoor toys or equipment no longer used
- Refresh storage bins with seasonal gear
Creating a clutter-free outdoor area gives you a more enjoyable space for barbecues, gatherings, or quiet evening relaxation—making it one of the most underrated summer home projects with instant rewards.
What to Do with What You Don’t Keep
- Donate to local shelters, schools, or thrift shops
- Recycle electronics, paint, and chemicals responsibly (many cities have summer disposal events)
- Sell items online or host a summer yard sale for quick cash and extra motivation
Decluttering = Free Renovation Prep
If you’re planning to paint, remodel, or even list your home for sale, decluttering is the first, most affordable step to set the tone for bigger changes. It’s zero cost (except maybe a few trash bags), but it can have one of the biggest impacts on how your home looks, feels, and functions.
5. Refresh Your House with Paint Summer Home Projects
A simple coat of paint can completely transform the look, feel, and value of your home—making it one of the smartest summer home projects on the list.
When it comes to summer home projects that offer major visual impact without a major price tag, painting tops the list. Whether you’re tackling the inside of your home or giving the exterior a facelift, a fresh coat of paint can breathe new life into tired spaces, boost curb appeal, and even help protect surfaces from weathering or wear.
And because summer typically brings long, dry days with low humidity, it’s the best season for painting projects—indoors and out. Paint dries faster, windows can stay open for ventilation, and the natural light helps you spot imperfections in real time.
Why Painting Is a High-Impact Summer Home Project
Painting is one of those summer home projects that looks deceptively simple but delivers massive results. Here’s why:
- Visual Transformation: Color has an immediate effect on how a space feels. Want to make a room feel bigger, cozier, more modern, or more energized? The right paint does the trick.
- Cost-Effective: Compared to a full remodel, painting gives you a dramatic update for a fraction of the price—especially if you do it yourself.
- Increased Home Value: According to industry reports, a freshly painted home—particularly in on-trend, neutral tones—can significantly boost resale appeal.
- Surface Protection: On the exterior, paint acts as a weatherproofing barrier, helping to resist UV rays, moisture damage, and pest intrusion.
Exterior vs. Interior Painting: Where to Start
Depending on your goals, the scope of your painting project can vary—but both interior and exterior upgrades come with benefits.
Exterior Painting
- Best done in dry, mild weather (hello, summer!)
- Great for siding, trim, shutters, doors, and porches
- Instantly improves curb appeal and perceived value
- Helps seal and protect wood and masonry from sun and moisture
MGS Contractor Tip: “Choose a high-quality exterior paint with UV protection and mildew resistance. Skimping here can cost you down the road.” — Chris Chapman, MGS Contracting Services
Interior Painting
- Ideal for refreshing bedrooms, kitchens, bathrooms, or open-concept spaces
- Can be done room-by-room, so it doesn’t overwhelm your summer schedule
- Good way to test a new style or color palette before committing to a full redesign
- Offers a quick “clean” feeling when paired with decluttering and updated fixtures
Design Tip: Lighter, cooler tones work well in summer to reflect sunlight and create a breezy, open atmosphere indoors. Think soft sage, pale greige, or clean whites with warm undertones.
Painting Done Right: How to Get the Most Out of This Summer Project
As Chris Chapman of MGS Contracting Services puts it, “You can DIY a decent paint job if you prep right and don’t rush. And go for quality paint—it pays off.”
Here’s how to make your painting project successful:
1. Start with Surface Prep
- Clean all surfaces thoroughly (power-wash for exteriors, degrease for kitchens)
- Patch holes and caulk gaps
- Sand glossy surfaces so paint adheres better
- Tape off trim and lay drop cloths
Skipping prep is one of the most common mistakes in DIY painting—and the reason why paint peels, chips, or looks uneven.
2. Pick the Right Paint
- Exterior: Use 100% acrylic latex for better durability and color retention
- Interior: Choose eggshell or satin for living areas, semi-gloss for kitchens and baths
- Ceilings: A flat white paint reduces light reflection and hides imperfections
- Low-VOC or No-VOC: Better for your health, especially if you’re painting in enclosed areas
MGS Pro Insight: Higher-quality paints have better pigment and coverage, meaning fewer coats, richer color, and longer life.
3. Don’t Paint in Direct Sunlight or Intense Heat
Even though summer is the best time to paint, avoid painting exterior surfaces in direct sun during the hottest part of the day. Paint can dry too quickly, leading to visible brush marks, cracking, or poor adhesion.
4. Use the Right Tools
- 2.5-inch angled brush for trim and edges
- Roller with appropriate nap based on surface texture
- Extension pole for ceilings and tall walls
- Quality painter’s tape (and remove it while the paint is still tacky)
Where to Use Paint for the Biggest Transformation
Looking for ideas? Here are high-impact areas to paint as part of your summer home projects list:
- Front door (go bold!)
- Porch ceiling (a classic Southern trick: light blue to keep bugs away)
- Kitchen cabinets (great if a full remodel isn’t in the budget)
- Bathroom walls for a fresh, spa-like look
- Outdoor furniture for a cohesive outdoor living space
- Accent walls in living areas or bedrooms
- Garage doors, fences, or backyard sheds
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro: What to Consider
Painting is one of the more approachable DIY summer home projects—but only if you have the time and attention to detail. If your home has high ceilings, tricky surfaces, or existing issues like peeling paint or moisture damage, hiring a professional might save you a ton of hassle.
From Chris at MGS Contracting Services: “A great paint job starts before you open the can. If you’re going to do it yourself, don’t rush prep and don’t skip the primer. If you want flawless results—especially on exteriors or cabinets—bringing in a pro is worth every penny.”
6. Check Your Gutters Summer Home Projects
When it comes to summer home projects that protect your home from costly damage, inspecting and cleaning your gutters should be at the top of your list.
Summer may seem like the season for lounging on patios and sprucing up your landscaping, but not all summer home projects are about aesthetics. Some, like checking and cleaning your gutters, are about safeguarding your home from long-term structural issues. After months of heavy spring rain, leftover autumn debris, and freezing winter conditions, your gutter system has likely taken a beating—and summer is the ideal time to give it the maintenance it deserves.
Why Gutter Maintenance Is One of the Most Essential Summer Home Projects
Your gutter system plays a critical role in directing water away from your home. When it gets clogged with leaves, twigs, shingle grit, or even nesting materials from birds or rodents, water can’t flow properly—and that creates a domino effect of problems.
Here’s why gutter maintenance ranks as one of the smartest summer home projects:
- Protects Your Foundation: Overflowing gutters can cause water to pool around your home’s base, eventually leading to cracked foundations, mold, and interior flooding.
- Prevents Roof Damage: Backed-up gutters trap moisture on the roofline, which can rot fascia boards, invite leaks, and destroy shingles.
- Stops Pest Infestations: Standing water and debris make perfect breeding grounds for mosquitoes, carpenter ants, and even rodents.
- Preserves Landscaping: Clogged gutters can overflow directly onto flower beds or newly planted shrubs, washing away mulch and topsoil.
MGS Contractor Insight: “It’s a dirty job, but gutter maintenance saves homeowners thousands in repair costs. Think of it as insurance for your roof, siding, and foundation.” — Chris Chapman, MGS Contracting Services
What to Look for During a Summer Gutter Check
This summer home project doesn’t just mean scooping out leaves. A full inspection helps you spot early signs of damage before they escalate. Here’s what to check:
Clogs and Debris
- Leaves, pine needles, shingle grit, and twigs are common culprits
- Be thorough around downspouts—this is where blockages usually form
Sagging or Separating Gutters
- Sections pulling away from the fascia can’t direct water properly
- Fasteners may need tightening or replacing
Water Damage
- Look for water stains on siding, soffits, or along your foundation
- Check for signs of rot or mold near gutter hangers
Improper Slope
- Water should flow toward downspouts—not pool in sections
- A slight pitch of about 1/4 inch for every 10 feet of gutter is ideal
Downspouts
- Make sure they’re clear and firmly attached
- Extensions should direct water at least 3–6 feet away from the foundation
How to Clean Your Gutters Properly
Once you’ve completed your inspection, cleaning them out is one of the more approachable DIY summer home projects—but it does require some care and the right tools.
What You’ll Need:
- Sturdy extension ladder
- Heavy-duty gloves
- Plastic scoop or garden trowel
- Hose with a high-pressure nozzle
- Bucket or tarp for debris
- Safety goggles (you’d be surprised what’s in there!)
Step-by-Step:
- Position your ladder on stable, level ground. Use a ladder stabilizer if you’re working on two-story gutters.
- Scoop out debris by hand or with a scoop, placing it in a bucket or dropping it onto a tarp below.
- Flush the gutters with a garden hose, starting from the end opposite the downspout.
- Check the downspout flow. If clogged, try a plumber’s snake or remove and clear it manually.
- Inspect for leaks or rust holes as water flows through.
Pro Tip from MGS Contracting Services: If you notice frequent clogs, consider installing gutter guards to reduce future maintenance.
When to Call in a Pro
Gutter cleaning and repairs can be dangerous—especially on taller homes or steep rooflines. If you’re not comfortable on a ladder or if you spot signs of more serious damage (like loose flashing or rotting fascia), this might be one of those summer home projects best left to the professionals.
MGS Contracting Services often bundles gutter repair with roof inspections, soffit/fascia repair, or painting projects, saving homeowners both time and money while keeping exteriors in top shape.
Bonus Project: Upgrade Your Gutter System
If your gutters are outdated, rusted, or improperly sized, summer is a great time to replace them altogether. New seamless aluminum or copper gutters improve function and add sleek curb appeal. Pairing them with underground drainage or rain chains can also help manage runoff stylishly.
7. Spruce Up Landscaping Summer Home Projects
A refreshed landscape isn’t just about pretty flowers—it’s a smart summer home project that boosts curb appeal, protects your home, and enhances outdoor enjoyment.
When homeowners think about summer home projects, landscaping is often at the top of the list—and for good reason. It’s one of the most visible, instantly gratifying ways to upgrade your property. But thoughtful landscaping does more than just beautify your yard. It adds value to your home, supports long-term maintenance, and can even improve energy efficiency by offering natural shade and insulation.
Summer is the perfect time to get outside, get your hands in the dirt, and transform neglected outdoor areas into functional, attractive extensions of your home. Whether you’re refreshing an existing garden or starting from scratch, a few smart updates can have major impact.
Why Landscaping Belongs on Every Summer Home Projects List
Not only is landscaping one of the most accessible and flexible summer home projects, it’s also one of the most cost-effective ways to improve your property. Here’s why it matters:
- Curb Appeal Counts: A well-maintained yard increases the perceived value of your home and makes a strong first impression—important whether you’re planning to sell or simply want to love where you live.
- Drainage and Erosion Control: Proper grading, mulching, and planting can prevent water from pooling near your foundation, minimizing future repair costs.
- Energy Efficiency: Strategically placed trees and shrubs can provide shade and wind protection, helping to regulate indoor temperatures and lower energy bills.
- Functional Outdoor Living: Clean, defined landscaping can create designated zones for seating, play, dining, and relaxing—making your yard more enjoyable all summer long.
Contractor Tip from MGS Contracting Services: “Polished landscaping isn’t about throwing in a few plants. It’s about shaping the property to work with your home, not against it. And summer is the best time to do it.”
Key Landscaping Tasks to Prioritize This Summer
These are the must-do summer home projects when it comes to your yard:
Apply Fresh Mulch
Mulch isn’t just for looks. It retains moisture, suppresses weeds, and regulates soil temperature—especially important during hot summer months. Choose organic mulch (like shredded bark or wood chips) for flower beds and around trees.
Trim Overgrown Hedges and Shrubs
Regular trimming not only keeps your plants healthy but gives your yard structure and symmetry. Make sure to trim away anything growing too close to your siding or blocking walkways.
Add Perennials for Easy Seasonal Color
Planting hardy perennials like daylilies, coneflowers, or black-eyed Susans can add color with minimal maintenance. They come back year after year and are often drought-tolerant—perfect for low-effort summer beauty.
Define Edges and Borders
Use a spade, shovel, or edging tool to cleanly separate garden beds from lawns. This gives your yard a crisp, intentional look. Edging also makes mowing easier and keeps mulch where it belongs.
Clean Up Tree Lines and Canopy
Remove dead branches, clear low-hanging limbs, and prune back growth encroaching on your roof or gutters. Proper tree maintenance can protect your home from storm damage and improve safety.
Weed and Feed the Lawn
Apply a summer-safe lawn fertilizer and pull invasive weeds. Thick, healthy grass naturally crowds out weed growth, so keeping your turf in top shape is both cosmetic and functional.
Landscaping Upgrades Worth Considering This Summer
If you’re ready to go beyond basic maintenance, these summer home projects can elevate your landscaping to the next level:
- Install Landscape Lighting: Solar or low-voltage lighting along paths, patios, and flower beds enhances safety and ambiance.
- Build Raised Beds or Garden Boxes: Great for vegetable gardens, pollinator habitats, or easy-to-maintain flower arrangements.
- Add Hardscaping Elements: Paver walkways, gravel paths, or stone borders give structure and style to outdoor spaces.
- Plant a Privacy Hedge: Live fencing using arborvitae or boxwoods is a natural alternative to installing a privacy fence—and just as effective with time.
Pro-Level Landscaping with a Contractor’s Eye
Landscaping doesn’t always require a contractor, but a professional eye can help you solve site-specific challenges like poor drainage, uneven grading, or difficult soils. At MGS Contracting Services, we often help homeowners integrate landscaping with other summer home projects—like deck installations, retaining walls, or outdoor kitchen builds—to create cohesive, multi-functional outdoor environments.
Quick Wins for Immediate Curb Appeal
If you’re short on time or budget, try these fast and affordable ideas:
- Place large planters at the entryway with seasonal blooms
- Reseed bare patches in the lawn
- Power-wash walkways and patios
- Paint or replace your mailbox and house numbers
The Benefits of Summer Home Projects: Lasting Value and Enjoyment
When you put in the time and effort to maintain and improve your home during the summer, the benefits extend far beyond the season. The work you do now will increase your home’s value, enhance its curb appeal, and create a more comfortable living space for years to come. Even simple updates can make a world of difference in terms of your home’s overall functionality and aesthetics.
Whether you’re tackling small tasks or embarking on larger renovations, summer home projects provide the perfect opportunity to improve your space while benefiting from ideal weather conditions and longer days. As Chris Chapman of MGS Contracting Services says, small upgrades and maintenance efforts can go a long way in helping to protect your home, maintain its integrity, and boost its market value.
In conclusion, don’t let the summer pass by without taking advantage of the opportunities it offers for home improvement. From outdoor projects to indoor updates, the season’s favorable conditions make it the best time to tackle a variety of high-impact home projects that will make a difference now and for years to come. Choose a few projects that align with your goals and budget, and use this time to create a home that you love—inside and out.
Contact us today & let’s help you with your summer home projects.